Napa Valley Power Struggle: County Supervisor Takes on Wine Executives

Belia Ramos’ ongoing struggle with the Napa County Farm Bureau began as a policy disagreement over local agricultural issues, but it has escalated into a troubling saga of personal attacks and harassment. Ever since the Farm Bureau turned against her, essential aspects of her public and personal life have come under scrutiny.

Initially, Ramos, the daughter of a vineyard worker and an advocate for environmental protections, had found support within Napa’s wine community. Her connection with the Farm Bureau soured after her conflict regarding Measure C, an initiative aimed at tightening environmental regulations on vineyards. When the Farm Bureau targeted her in a lawsuit, the fallout led to a series of conflicts that distanced her from many political allies.

As the tensions grew, Ramos faced harassment from Farm Bureau executive Ryan Klobas, who allegedly invaded her privacy through relentless texting and unwanted social interactions. This uncomfortable dynamic worsened as she noted Klobas attempting to control the narrative of her political image, treating her as if she were under constant supervision.

This atmosphere changed dramatically with the tragic suicide of Klobas in January 2023, an event that Ramos says has brought unfounded blame and guilt upon her shoulders. Following his death, significant figures in Napa’s wine industry, including notable businesswomen, began to publicly point fingers at Ramos, claiming she bore responsibility for Klobas’ troubles.

The culmination of this strife manifested in a shocking incident in March 2024, when legally sensitive family court documents linked to Ramos were found stapled to trees in public areas. This invasion of privacy was reportedly orchestrated by her former friends who had realigned themselves with her political adversaries.

Ultimately, Ramos has emerged from the ordeal emboldened yet battle-weary. Despite her losses and the emotional toll, she has secured her position as Napa’s longest-serving supervisor, determined to continue her work while seeking to mend the fractures caused by both personal attacks and public scrutiny.

Ramos has vowed to maintain her commitment to her constituency, asserting, “This didn’t break me. I’m sure beat up by it. But it didn’t break me.”

November 19, 2024 Wine

Brunch in a Glass: The Breakfast Staple Perfect for Vodka Cranberry Cocktails!

Cocktail mixology has found its way into many homes, with people enjoying the chance to craft their beverages. One classic pairing that stands the test of time is vodka and cranberry juice. Traditionally adored in drinks like the Cape Cod and Bay Breeze, this duo can be enhanced by a surprise ingredient often found at the breakfast table: maple syrup.

Incorporating maple syrup into a vodka cranberry cocktail not only adds a unique flavor profile but also enriches the drink’s sweetness. Maple syrup offers a depth that simple syrup cannot replicate, enhancing the drink with caramel and toffee notes. Vodka’s clarity allows it to blend seamlessly with this sweet addition, beautifully balancing the tartness of the cranberry juice.

To make the perfect vodka cranberry with maple syrup, start with real cranberry juice—avoid sugary cocktails that contain corn syrup. A respectable rule is to mix about ½ ounce of maple syrup with vodka, fresh lime juice, and cranberry juice. This blend creates a refreshing drink with layers of flavor.

For those looking to elevate their cocktail further, experimenting with other ingredients can introduce exciting new facets. Adding carbonation with tonic water or sparkling water lightens the drink and enhances its zest. Alternatively, a hint of vanilla from vanilla-flavored vodka or vanilla syrup can introduce a buttery, creamy element to the mix, creating a delightful complexity.

Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves can also be included to infuse warmth and merge beautifully with the sweetness of the maple syrup. With a few creative tweaks, the vodka cranberry can transform into a show-stopping cocktail that impresses guests and provides a unique twist on a beloved classic.

For more on enhancing vodka cranberry cocktails, read the original article on Tasting Table.

November 19, 2024 Recipes

Top High-End Whiskey Releases to Watch for in 2024

The art of liquor distillation has a rich history, with some traditions dating back to the 1400s. In recent years, many spirits producers have embraced a premium and ultra-premium trend, releasing some of their oldest and most remarkable spirits. Notably, The Glenlivet celebrated its 200th anniversary with a release of the Glenlivet 55-Year Old, priced at $55,000, while Delamain offered its Grande Champagne cognac, L’Oiseau Rare, which is expected to fetch a similar high price at auction.

As the landscape of whiskey collecting shifts, there’s a growing trend toward consuming high-end spirits rather than merely collecting them. The market now features a plethora of premium bottles with unique finishes and age statements, making them widely accessible to enthusiasts who prefer to enjoy their purchases rather than place them on a shelf as collectibles.

The Best Whiskey Releases of 2024

Whiskey enthusiasts can look forward to a plethora of new releases in 2024 that cater to both collectors and casual consumers alike. Whether you choose to savor these high-end spirits neat or explore their unique complexities through tasting, the newest offerings represent both an investment and a celebration of craftsmanship in the world of whiskey.

November 19, 2024 liquor-articles

Unveiling the World’s Best Vodka: Insights from Three Renowned Experts

Belvedere 10 is an ultra-premium vodka released in October 2023 that has garnered significant attention and praise from industry experts and consumers alike. Launched with a striking marketing campaign including a commercial directed by Taika Waititi, its unique sculpted bottle not only stands out visually but also features a lighting array designed to enhance its presentation.

Crafted from organic Diamond rye sourced from a single 10-hectare Polish estate, Belvedere 10 adheres to traditional distillation practices dating back to 1910. Each bottle of vodka undergoes a meticulous production process, allowing the spirit to mellow for ten months after distillation.

Tasting notes reveal Belvedere 10 to be a citrusy and sweet experience, with hints of fresh lemon on the nose and a creamy buckwheat honey palate. Bartender Matt Edelman highlights its great viscosity and refreshing nature, making it an excellent choice for cocktails or simply enjoyed on the rocks. He notes that exceptional spirits like Belvedere 10 enhance the overall drinking experience.

Dan Dunn, a drinks writer and podcast host, lauds the vodka for its complexity and distinction, asserting that it defies the stereotype of vodka as being neutral. He describes it as a well-crafted spirit that carries a myriad of flavors, comparable to fine dining experiences.

Chad Schropp, beverage director at a Beverly Hills restaurant, appreciates the quality of the single estate grain, noting subtle coffee bean undertones in the finish, which makes it versatile enough for various cocktails, including an espresso martini.

Belvedere 10 is well-recognized among connoisseurs, and while subjective claims of it being the best vodka may vary, industry professionals consistently rate its flavor profile highly, making it a noteworthy choice in the premium vodka category.

November 18, 2024 liquor-articles

Can Rum and Hot Water Cure Your Common Cold? 5 Key Insights

Rum, often touted as a traditional remedy for colds, offers some temporary relief but is not a cure. When combined with hot water, honey, and lemon, it can soothe symptoms like a sore throat. The warmth and steam from a hot toddy may help relieve congestion; however, the alcohol in rum has the potential to suppress your immune system, affecting your body’s ability to fight off the virus responsible for the cold.

Understanding the Rum Remedy

As seasons change and pollution levels rise, many people find themselves battling colds. Rum-based drinks, specifically hot toddies, have been used as home remedies for respiratory discomfort. These concoctions typically consist of rum, hot water, honey, and lemon, offering temporary comfort and alleviating minor symptoms.

Quick Relief with Caution

While a hot toddy may provide immediate relief by soothing a sore throat and helping to clear nasal passages, it is essential to understand that this relief is primarily superficial. Ingesting rum can feel comforting, but excessive consumption may prolong your illness instead of aiding recovery.

Key Ingredients

  • Honey: This ingredient is not merely for flavor; it possesses antimicrobial properties and can significantly soothe sore throats and coughs.
  • Lemon: Rich in vitamin C, lemon juice may support overall immune function. Although it won’t cure a cold, it can help boost your body’s defenses.

Importance of Hydration

Maintaining hydration is crucial, especially when suffering from a cold. Hot toddies can help with hydration, but it is vital to consume non-alcoholic fluids as well to aid recovery.

Acceptance of Symptoms

Ultimately, there is no cure for the common cold. The most effective remedies focus on managing symptoms while the body works to eliminate the virus. Thus, while a rum-based drink can ease discomfort, it does not shorten the recovery period. Prioritizing rest, hydration, and time remains essential for healing.

November 18, 2024 liquor-articles

Sierra Nevada Brewing Unveils Their Most Exclusive Limited Release Beer

Sierra Nevada Brewing Company is set to unveil Celly Drippins, a highly limited edition beer, on November 22, 2024, at their Mills River taproom in North Carolina. For years, this special variant of their renowned Celebration IPA remained a secret, only available in small quantities within the brewery.

Celebration IPA is cherished by beer enthusiasts for its unique taste; crafted with fresh hops, it symbolizes the arrival of the holiday season and celebrates the recent hop harvest. Notably, Doug Veliky, CMO of Revolution Brewing, has praised it as the greatest winter seasonal beer due to its robust 6.8% ABV and flavor profile that respects its predecessor, the flagship Pale Ale.

Celly Drippins stands out as an even rarer offering, produced from the residual “drippings” collected from the dry hop bags used in making Celebration. According to Technical Brewmaster Scott Jennings, the brewing process involves three people handling the hop bags, and during this procedure, some beer naturally drips into the fermenter. This is salvaged to create Celly Drippins, which has shifted from an employees-only release to a sought-after taproom offering.

Initially, Celly Drippins was shared with staff as a gesture of appreciation, but anticipation grew, prompting inquiries as early as late summer for the newest batch. Brian Grossman, Chief Brewer and co-owner of Sierra Nevada, recognized this demand and decided to publicly announce the release.

With only five to seven barrels produced each year—the equivalent of just one can for every 5,000 cans of Celebration brewed—Celly Drippins is Sierra Nevada’s most exclusive beer. The limited nature of its availability means that those who wish to try it often plan their visits to the taproom in advance, as it typically sells out quickly.

The 2024 release of Celly Drippins will be officially tapped at 3 p.m. on November 22 at the Mills River location. For more details about the event, you can visit Sierra Nevada’s website.

November 18, 2024 beer-articles

Teen Girls Hospitalized After Consuming Poisoned Cocktails at Thai Hotspot: A Fight for Their Lives

Two Australian teenagers are currently in serious condition after consuming poisoned cocktails during their backpacking trip in Thailand. The incident occurred at their hostel in Udon Thani, close to the Laos border, where they had been enjoying their travels.

The girls, both believed to be 19 years old, began feeling unwell after drinking cocktails that were reportedly laced with methanol, a dangerous substance often used as a cheaper alternative to ethanol in alcoholic beverages. One of the victims has been transported to a hospital in Bangkok, where she is reportedly in "grave" condition, according to her father.

The two were part of a larger group of around ten women traveling together, and the incident has raised alarms within the backpacking community, particularly due to warnings about methanol poisoning. A report indicated that just 25-90 milliliters of methanol could be lethal.

Officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade are providing consular assistance to the families of the affected teenagers, expressing their heartfelt concern during this distressing time.

Travelers in the area have been warned against consuming local spirits, particularly after reports emerged of others experiencing similar symptoms after being offered complimentary shots at a bar in Vang Vieng, a well-known tourist spot in Laos. Symptoms of methanol poisoning can include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, blindness, and seizures.

November 18, 2024 Recipes

Taste Test Review: King of Kentucky’s New High-Proof Bourbon – A Flavorful Experience Without Overwhelm

The King of Kentucky bourbon has made a triumphant return with its seventh edition, produced by Brown-Forman. Originally introduced in 1881, the brand was discontinued in 1968 but has been resurrected as a single barrel, barrel-strength bourbon since its revival in 2018.

This year’s offering is a remarkable blend, derived from a mashbill of 79% corn, 11% rye, and 10% malted barley, aged from 16 years in specific warehouses at the Brown-Forman Distillery. The latest release consists of 63 barrels filled between July and November of 2007, each meticulously numbered and labeled.

In a tasting session, the bourbon stood out despite its high proof of 130.4, which usually isn’t preferred for softness. The flavor profile revealed notes of sweet vanilla, cotton candy, and caramel, with a complex layer despite its strength. Tasting notes also described a finish that was hot yet remarkable for its texture and depth.

While the price tag is set at $350, collectors and enthusiasts anticipate that the value will soar in the secondary market, often reaching into the thousands. Those with a serious interest in high-quality bourbon are encouraged to acquire a bottle, as it promises to be an exceptional addition to any collection.

Score: 96

For more information on bourbon and whiskey reviews, visit Robb Report.

November 18, 2024 liquor-articles

Napa Valley Showdown: County Supervisor vs. Wine Executives in a Power Struggle

Belia Ramos, a Napa County supervisor, is embroiled in a prolonged feud with the Napa County Farm Bureau that began as a policy disagreement and escalated into a personal and damaging conflict. This ongoing struggle has included accusations of sexual harassment, political manipulation, and significant emotional distress for Ramos.

Initially, Ramos was backed by the wine industry, receiving the Farm Bureau’s endorsement when she first ran for supervisor in 2016. However, her relationship with the organization soured after she opposed a 2018 county initiative aimed at enhancing environmental regulations for vineyards. After representing herself in a legal dispute surrounding the initiative, tensions heightened, leading to public disputes over various local ordinances and her distancing from key political figures.

The situation further intensified with the suicide of a Farm Bureau executive, Ryan Klobas, in January 2023, a tragedy to which Ramos has been unfavorably linked. This connection has caused Ramos to endure significant public scrutiny, including accusations suggesting responsibility for Klobas’s death, which have echoed through local political circles.

Ramos has described experiences of personal harassment, including being monitored and followed, with unsettling incidents, such as receiving a disturbing text from Klobas the night before a critical vote. Following a series of escalating confrontations, Ramos felt compelled to involve law enforcement for her safety, notably after witnessing a suspicious car parked near her home.

In January 2024, after Klobas’s passing, tensions reached a tipping point at a chamber event where Ramos said she sensed hostility from former allies. Revelations about her custody battle were shared publicly, leading to accusations of bullying and personal vendettas being used as political tools against her.

In a particularly distressing episode, sensitive documents related to her custody case appeared affixed to trees in public spaces shortly before a crucial election, prompting Ramos to file a police report.

Despite these challenges, Ramos has remained resilient and committed to her position, winning re-election in March 2024 with increased support. She aims to be a voice for her community amidst a tumultuous political landscape, determined not to let the struggle break her spirit. As she reflects on her journey, Ramos emphasizes her resolve to continue serving the public, stating unequivocally, "This didn’t break me.

November 18, 2024 Wine

Cheers to Miss Universe 2024: 5 Festive Cocktails for the Grand Finale!

Celebrate the upcoming Miss Universe 2024 finals with a selection of festive cocktails that honor the cultural heritage of the contestants. This year’s event, taking place in Mexico City, features 90 contestants showcasing their national costumes and evening gowns, culminating in the coronation of the new Miss Universe.

Miss USA – Alma Cooper

Drink Pairing: Autumn Whiskey Sour
This cocktail reflects Alma’s strength and sophistication with its blend of bourbon, honey, and charred rosemary.

Ingredients:

  • 2 parts Basil Hayden® Bourbon
  • 1 part fresh lemon juice
  • ¾ part honey
  • 2 dashes apple cider vinegar
  • 1 dash Angostura® bitters
  • 1 sprig charred rosemary (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice.
  2. Shake vigorously, strain into a rocks glass, and garnish with charred rosemary.

Miss México – María Fernanda Beltrán

Drink Pairing: Sweater Weather Margarita
A festive twist on the classic margarita incorporating passion fruit and cinnamon, mirroring María’s entrepreneurial spirit.

Ingredients (Serves 1):

  • 1.25 oz Astral Tequila Reposado
  • 0.25 oz cinnamon-infused orange liqueur
  • 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
  • 0.25 oz passion fruit syrup
  • Garnish: Cinnamon stick

Instructions:

  1. Shake all ingredients with ice.
  2. Strain into an ice-filled rocks glass and garnish with a cinnamon stick.

Miss Chile – Emilia Dides

Drink Pairing: Dragon’s Hpnosis
A colorful, fruit-forward twist on the Pisco Sour, representing the elegance of Miss Chile.

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 oz Capurro Pisco
  • 0.75 oz Hpnotiq
  • 0.5 oz dragon fruit syrup
  • 0.5 oz fresh pineapple juice
  • 1 oz fresh key lime juice
  • 1 egg white
  • Garnish: Bitters design, red dragon fruit slice

Instructions:

  1. Combine ingredients (except egg white) in a shaker.
  2. Shake with ice, strain, and garnish as desired.

Miss Jamaica – Rachel Silvera

Drink Pairing: Berry Smash Punch
Combining Jamaican rum and mixed berries, this punch captures Rachel’s vibrant personality.

Ingredients:

  • 4 fl oz Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum
  • 2 fl oz orange liqueur
  • 16 fl oz pomegranate juice
  • 8 fl oz ginger beer
  • 2 cups mixed seasonal berries
  • Garnish: Mint and thyme

Instructions:

  1. Muddle berries in a pitcher.
  2. Mix in rum, liqueur, juice, and ginger beer.
  3. Serve over ice garnished with mint and thyme.

Miss Venezuela – Ileana Márquez

Drink Pairing: Diplomático Old Fashioned
This drink reflects Venezuela’s rum heritage and Ileana’s grace.

Ingredients:

  • 50 ml Diplomático Reserva Exclusiva
  • 5 ml sugar syrup
  • 3 dashes of bitters
  • Garnish: Orange peel

Instructions:

  1. Combine syrup and bitters in a glass, add ice and rum, and stir.
  2. Garnish with an expressed orange peel.

Tips for a Miss Universe Watch Party

  • Feature Non-Alcoholic Options: Include mocktails or local non-alcoholic beverages.
  • Get Creative with Garnishes: Use cultural touches in your garnishes.
  • Set Up a DIY Drink Bar: Let guests create their own drinks with provided ingredients.

These cocktails not only celebrate the contestants but also enhance your viewing experience for the Miss Universe finals.

November 17, 2024 Recipes